By Tech.atang@gmail.com 
In 2024, cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, becoming more complex and widespread across all operating systems. Therefore, strong protection against them has become extremely important to ensure that your personal and professional data is protected. With so many options available online, choosing the right antivirus program for your device may not be as easy as choosing your birthday cake. There are things you should take into account before choosing a program. We will explain how the programs work and compare them for you so that you know the price, speed, and performance, all to suit your choice and the device you are using.
1. Kaspersky Total Security
The program is famous for its set of comprehensive and integrated security tools. It provides real-time protection against malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and other cyber threats. Key features include Safe Money technology for secure online transactions, a password manager, parental controls, and backup and encryption features. This is a unique experience.
Cons:
- Potential performance impact on devices with older systems.
- Some features require manual configuration to get optimal performance.
System Requirements:
- Windows: 7 or higher
- Mac: OS X 10.12 or higher
- Android: 5.0 or higher
- iOS: 12.0 or higher
2. Norton 360 Deluxe
Overview:
Norton 360 Deluxe is also an integrated security solution that provides comprehensive protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. It includes a secure VPN, password manager, dark web monitoring, and parental controls. Norton’s multi-layered defense mechanisms make it a reliable choice for individuals and families. The company has a great position in the world of antivirus and its brand is well-known, making it one of the best protection programs to this day.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
- VPN speed may be inconsistent depending on server load.
System Requirements:
- Windows: XP (all versions) and later
- Mac: OS X 10.10 or later
- Android: 6.0 or later
- iOS: 12.0 or later
3. ESET Smart Security Premium
Overview:
Who doesn’t know this robot that always appears suddenly on our computer screens to save us from malware? Even when you connect an external memory to your device, it appears and does its job. ESET Smart Security Premium provides advanced threat detection and multi-layered security. It also provides ransomware protection, secure payment and banking tools, a password manager, encrypted storage, and anti-theft features for laptops and mobile devices. ESET is known for its low system impact and strong security measures.
Cons:
- The interface can be complicated for novice users.
- Some advanced features require manual setup.
System Requirements:
- Windows: 7 or higher
- Mac: OS X 10.12 or higher
- Android: 5.0 or higher
- iOS: 11.0 or higher
4. Bitdefender Total Security
Overview:
This program is very important and has a reputation in the world of antivirus programs. It may be one of your preferences or options as it offers the same as the program we mentioned above. Bitdefender Total Security is famous for its advanced defense against threats and comprehensive protection features. It provides multi-layered protection from ransomware, a VPN, anti-tracking, and a single license that covers multiple devices. Bitdefender’s easy-to-use interface and powerful protection make it suitable for beginners and advanced users.
Cons:
- The VPN has a daily data limit in the standard plan.
- Some features may be cumbersome for basic users.
System Requirements:
- Windows: 7 or higher
- Mac: OS X 10.10 or higher
- Android: 5.0 or higher
- iOS: 11.2 or higher
5. McAfee Total Protection
Overview:
This program is one of the oldest protection programs and is as popular and reliable as the leading protection programs in this field. Here, the experience factor plays an important role in the performance of this program. McAfee Total Protection provides real-time threat protection, anti-phishing capabilities, and identity theft protection through dark web monitoring. It also includes a VPN, password manager, and performance optimization tools. McAfee’s comprehensive set of features makes it ideal for individuals and families.
Cons:
- May be resource intensive on older systems.
System Requirements:
- Windows: 7 or higher
- Mac: OS X 10.12 or higher
- Android: 5.1 or higher
- iOS: 10.0 or higher
6. Avast Premium Security
Overview:
Avast is one of the most famous antivirus programs as it is characterized by a low price that is almost free. It has other programs that provide free services and other paid services in the form of upgrades, which makes it available to everyone regardless of economic status. Avast Premium Security provides strong protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing. It includes a secure web browser, webcam protection, firewall, Wi-Fi security, and real-time threat detection. Avast is known for its comprehensive free version, which provides basic protection.
Cons:
- Frequent upgrade prompts in the free version.
- VPN is not included in the standard package.
System Requirements:
- Windows: 7 or higher
- Mac: OS X 10.10 or higher
- Android: 5.0 or higher
- iOS: 10.0 or higher